Rebecca Mitchell

Rebecca is a Sydney-based journalist and Masters student. She has previously worked as a reporter for WIN News, and as a presenter on the Community Radio Network. She has interned at several women’s fashion and lifestyle publications, including 2threads.com, and Marie Claire. She recently returned from a year-long trip to Europe, and spends her spare time trying to relive this experience through Instagram.

There have been some memorable hair trends in recent years: Ombre hair, pastel-colored hair, medium-length waves… but none are quite as enduring as the trendy tresses of these famous ladies. The ‘dos influenced whole generations of women and how they styled their locks, but went one further, to catalyze entire movements of fashion and beauty standards. All hail the hair icons!

Twiggy was an unprecedented style and beauty tidal wave. Her waif-ish body shape became the most desired, her mod style and quirky eye makeup continue to influence fashion trends. But most of all, her pixie haircut inspired modern woman to sport the cropped, elvish style.

Farrah Fawcett

This Charlie’s Angel was the definition of hair inspo for the 70s gal. Everyone wanted the Farrah Fawcett flicks. Even still, she is the poster girl for this layered, windswept hairstyle.

Jennifer Aniston

I can’t imagine the number of photographs of Jen were shown to hairdressers throughout the 90s and early 00s. During her run as Rachel Green on Friends, Aniston sported a variety of hairstyles, all of which became the “next big thing”. Her face layers, her cute bob, her long extensions – which is your favorite Rachel?

Posh Spice

Any young woman or teenage girl in the early 2000s will appreciate the frenzy that surrounded Victoria Beckham‘s hair. Remember the Pob? For those who may not, Pob is the combined and abbreviated version of Posh (Spice) and bob (like the haircut). That’s right – her hair had it’s own name!

Gisele Bundchen

Gisele’s beachy waves gave life to the term “model hair”. Her long, sunkissed locks were both effortless and glamorous, straight from the beaches of Brazil to the runways of Victoria’s Secret. Who hasn’t spent too much time with a straightener, curling iron or “beach spray” trying desperately to get Gisele’s tresses?

Are you constantly living on the brink of bankruptcy? Do you have trouble saying no to a new pair of shoes? It’s probably time you developed some healthy spending habits. Budgeting and saving can take effort, but it all starts by being aware of your everyday financial activity, and cutting out the little things. Here are a few tips to help sort your savings, that you can incorporate into your daily routine.

1. Don’t be hasty

Some people call it the 30-day rule: if you see something you like, don’t buy it immediately. Wait 30 days and if you still want it, you have earned your permission to buy it. Why wait? Because given some time, you may have realised that the hot pink crop top was actually a terrible idea and if you didn’t buy it, you could have paid your phone bill on time! It helps prevent impulse purchasing and, therefore, unnecessary spending!

2. Make lists

A shopping list isn’t just help jog your failing memory. It can also stop you from buying things you don’t need. When it comes to grocery shopping, you might also want to make a weekly meal plan in order to get the exact ingredients you need, saving you from doubling-up, missing out, and having to return to the supermarket several times a week.

3. Log your spending

This should be the first thing you do if you want to monitor and cut back your spending. Start by logging your daily expenses, and pin point where you need to cut back. For example, I spend too much money eating out. Therefore, I’ve made a conscious decision to limit the number of times I get take-away, take my lunch to work, and if I know I have a big night out coming up, I’ll find other ways to save that week.

4. Cut back on treats for the kids

If you have kids, keep in mind that, despite what advertisers tell you, it doesn’t take the latest toys and gadgets to entertain them. A healthy child should have a healthy imagination, and being resourceful during play time is not only beneficial for your child’s development, but also for your budget. While most of us will know how easy it is to give in to an epic tantrum at the mall, try to take these things in your stride, don’t yield to poor behaviour (reward them when they’re good), and remember that it will all be over soon, and your kids will find other things to do.

5. Turn off the TV

This is not only great for saving on electricity bills, you will also avoid the constant onslaught of television advertising and product placement that piques your desire to shop! Added bonus: You will have more time to spend doing things you enjoy and are practical. Using your time efficiently is invaluable.

Eating before you workout is important in kick starting your metabolism, especially if you exercise first thing in the morning. Having said that, nobody wants to go jogging on a full stomach – so keep your pre-workout meal light and easily digestible.

After your workout is when you want to replenish your lost energy. Protein and carbohydrates are key during this time, in order to repair your worked muscles and restore your sugars. You should eat somewhere between 30 minutes to an hour after you finish exercising (don’t forget to stretch!). For the time-poor, try a protein shake or bar.

It always surprises me the number of women who still shudder at the idea of paying for a first date. Despite relative progression in gender equality, it would appear that picking up a check, particularly on a first date, remains linked to a man’s character: the more chivalrous you are, the greater your feelings for your partner, the more you are willing to fork out for a date. We don’t still believe this, do we?

A recent survey found that 77 per cent of people in heterosexual relationships, believe the man should pay for the first date. Perhaps surprisingly, this notion is more common among men than women.

As we continue to labor for the dissolution of sexist and gender-biased practices – why does this one remain so firm? Not only does this antiquated habit persist, women and men are encouraged to perpetuate the ritual.

It comes down to a few basic rules: courtesy, fairness and financial responsibility. Despite an increase in the number of female breadwinners, men still believe it is their duty to pay for their date – and frankly, that’s not fair to either party. If you’re earning more than your partner, you shouldn’t expect to avoid the check just because you have a vagina. Men: don’t consider your wallet an extension of your manhood or a display of your dominance.

However, where the politics of check-paying gets tricky, is when one of your couple can’t afford to splurge on the finer things in life. The lesson: don’t go to a fancy restaurant if you can’t afford it. If your man insists, you’re welcome to go – as long as you make it clear that it’s not within your means. This rule applies to both men and women. If your finances are running low, get creative with your dating ritual and do something free or inexpensive. A date shouldn’t be about impressing your partner with flashy gestures – it should be about getting to know each other, deciding whether or not you like the person enough to pursue them.

A similar rule applies to ordering wine. If you’re sharing a bottle, always consult with your partner before ordering. A friend of mine – a student at the time – once went on a date, where her partner ordered a really expensive bottle of wine. To be fair, she offered to split the bill at the end of the night, only to find that the wine he ordered was way out of her price range. It’s not always easy to speak up on a first date, but it should be considered courteous, that if your choose the bottle to share – without consensus of the people you’re dining with – you should be the one to pay for it. If you’re splitting the bill, pay for the wine separately.

Do you have any rules for paying on a date? Who picks up the check on your dates?

Basil Pesto is the tasty green condiment often found in Italian cuisine. You can make it into a delicious pasta sauce, drizzle over pizza, eat with cheese and crostini, or have it with eggs – pesto is versatile, healthy and delicious. Fortunately, it is also easy to make at home!

Heat olive oil in a pot. Add the onions and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, cooking over medium heat and stirring frequently for 10-15 minutes. The onions on the bottom should become quite dark but not burnt – when it darkens, remove from heat and allow to sit for 3-5 mins for the onions on top to sweat and soften those underneath. Stir well, return to the heat and continue to cook for about 10 mins until the onions are completely soft and dark, golden brown, removing the pot from the heat occasionally to allow further softening. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

To make the tart cups, lay pastry sheets on surface and cut into circles (2 inches diameter). Grease a muffin tray or tartlet cooking cups with butter. Fit pastry circles to cups. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Set aside to cool.

Spoon equal amounts of caramelised onion into tartlets. Top with a small slice of goats cheese and garnish with thyme to serve.

Slice the bread into 1/4 inch slices, place on a baking tray and splash with olive oil. Toast in oven until golden.

Put garlic cloves, olives and sun-dried tomatoes in bowl of food processor. Pulse until coarsley chopped but not pureed. Slice basil in ribbons and stir into tapenade.

Roughly spread the olive and tomato tapenade onto crostini and serve.

Smoked salmon on rye

Makes approx. 24

Ingredients

1 loaf rye bread, lightly toasted

5 oz crème fraiche

5 oz light cream cheese

2 tbsp lemon juice

3 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

1 tbsp fresh dill, 1tbsp finely chopped

8 oz smoked salmon

Pinch of salt

Method

Using a cookie cutter, cut out circles (1.5 inch diameter) from the lightly toasted rye bread. Alternatively you can cut into halves or quarters.

Using an electric mixer, mix crème fraiche, cream cheese and lemon juice together until smooth. Fold through dill and chives, and add a pinch of salt. Using a teaspoon, dollop a small amount onto the rye toast.

Slice smoked salmon into strips and roll up. Place one on top of each canape. Garnish with sprig of dill.

If you’re into looking at beautiful places and interesting people, look no further than your Instagram feed. Start your travel bucket list in 2015 with a bit of inspiration from these talented Instagram travel photographers.

Murad Osmann has travelled around the globe with his girlfriend (@yourleo) and each shot shows her – always fabulously dressed – seemingly asking the photographer to follow her into the beautiful scenery.

In my opinion, the ultimate travel photography Instagram account. Get to know their resident photographers – like the owner of this adorable shot, @amivitale – and learn a bit about the world in the process.

Planning a winter wedding? The snowy season can add a certain atmospheric charm to your nuptials. While most people equate a cold and wet wedding with a nightmare, just think of a warm and cosy ceremony and even cosier wedding night by an open fire. Here are a few of the hottest winter wedding dresses this season.

A lot of people imagine a princess dress to be the Disney kind with a big full skirt and a sweetheart neckline. However, the real princess – like the Duchess of Cambridge, or Princess Grace of Monaco – tend to opt for the conservative, and elegant sleeved gown. Take a look at the following by Rosa Clara.

The sweater dress

Thanks to Olivia Palermo, the sweater dress is all of a sudden a big thing. Two-pieces also dominated the catwalk in the fall 2015 bridal fashion week. So why not walk down this aisle in a skirt and sweater this winter?

The wedding coats and capes

You can wear whatever you want underneath, but for those outdoor photos you will need something to keep your back, chest and shoulders warm! Try a long and elegant coat, a cute shrug, or a fairytale cape.

We have less than a week to go before the biggest runway event of the year – the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. This landmark event has been running since 1995 and has transcended a mere catwalk show. With performances from the biggest pop acts in the world, and the industry’s biggest supermodel names, there is no doubt why the Victoria’s Secret special is the only fashion show to be broadcast internationally on mainstream tv networks. The show will be aired on Tuesday, December 9 on CBS, and here is everything you need to know in the lead up to the big night.

To be granted your Victoria’s Secret “wings” is the modelling equivalent of winning an Oscar. These ladies are at the top of the beauty game, only to be exceeded by retired Angels, such as Tyra Banks, Gisele Bundchen, Miranda Kerr. The line-up this year includes: Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Behati Prinsloo, Candice Swanepoel, Doutzen Kroes, Karlie Kloss, Lily Aldridge and Lindsay Ellingson.

2. Their Instagram Accounts

Follow your favorite model on Instagram for the biggest scoop. Start with the Victoria’s Secret account (@victoriassecret), and try resident photographer Jerome Duran (@jeromeduran) for bonus snaps. To get in on the action, use the official hashtag #VSFashionShow.

Adriana Lima – @adrianalima

Alessandra Ambrosio – @alessandraambrosio

Behati Prinsloo – @behatiprinsloo

Candice Swanepoel – @angelcandices

Doutzen Kroes – @doutzen

Karlie Kloss – @karliekloss

Lily Aldridge – @lilyaldridge

Lindsay Ellingson – @lindsellingson

3. The Fantasy Bra

Among the big news this year is that there will be TWO Victoria’s Secret Fantasy Bras. For the first time, Brazilian duo Adriana Lima and Alessandra Ambrosia will be filling out the bras, which are valued at $2 million each! The most expensive lingerie sets in the world are encrusted with thousands of amethysts, topaz, diamonds, sapphires, garnets and 18k gold… essentially enough bling to enrich a small country.

4. The other models

According to the casting agents, the recipe for VS models is personality, proportions (well, duh), glowing skin and a killer smile. There are rumored to be 44 models hitting the catwalk in this year’s show. Keep an eye on the fresh faces of 2014 because this year’s newcomers might be the next Gisele. Victoria’s Secret posts a casting video each year, take a look at this year’s competition.

5. The Music

This year Taylor Swift (who also performed at last year’s show), Ed Sheeran, Ariana Grande and Hozier will be taking the stage (runway?) to provide the strut-worthy soundtrack.

6. Cara Delevingne And Kendall Jenner Will NOT Be Walking

I repeat, Cara Delevingne and Kendall Jenner will not be walking. For those who passionately follow VS news, this might be a big deal since these have been two of VS’ most famous faces in the past. This year, Delevingne and Jenner passed up the gig in favor of their old pal Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel. It’s tough being a model, right?

With so much competition in the retail space, e-tailers and “real life” stores have been announcing their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales as early as, well, yesterday! Here we have a few great bargains to look out for.

A recent study published in The Journal of Sexual Medicine sought to uncover the most common and uncommon sexual fantasies in men and women, and – perhaps unsurprisingly – found quite a disparity in the results.

The study asked 1,516 people (799 men and 718 women) what they fantasized about, and found that most of us are pretty vanilla, although the nature of what we fantasized about varied dramatically based on gender.

While 61 per cent of men fantasized about interracial sex, only 27 per cent of women shared this fantasy. Fifty-seven per cent of men wanted to have sex with someone younger, compared to just 18 per cent of women.

Being sexually dominated – spanking, bondage, forced sexual experiences – was popular among both men and women, but the latter was one of the most prominent fantasies for women (more than 60 per cent) – a fact the researches think links to the prominence of 50 Shades of Grey. However, women were far less likely to want their fantasies realized.

The most typical fantasies for women involved having sex in a specific place, while the most predominant fantasy among males was – surprise, surprise – the threesome.

Regardless of the differences, one thing was certain: almost everybody wants oral sex!

Within both sexes, urination (either peeing on or being peed on) is among the least common sexual fantasies.

See more of the findings in this awesome graph made by Reddit user, IronyAndWhine.

Most of us know how to protect our skin from the sun, but what about the cold? The air is typically dryer in the winter months, making it more difficult for our skin and hair to retain the moisture it needs to stay healthy, vibrant and supple. Prevent chapping, cracking and dryness with these winter skincare tips.

The cold dries out your skin, so you will need a heavy duty moisturizer for the winter season. Oil-based moisturizers are preferable to water-based, as the oil will not only hydrate your skin, but form a protective layer to shield you from the cold. Keep a travel-sized product in your bag or pick up a tester from your local cosmetics counter.

2. Humidify

Indoor heating systems can suck the moisture out of the air – and ultimately, out of your skin! Fortunately, a humidifier can return the moisture to the air, without stealing any of that glorious warmth. Include a few drops of essential oils to help your skin, sinuses and stress levels.

3. Keep a hand cream handy

There is a reason why hand cream is often thicker than other body moisturizers! The skin on the hands is thinner and has fewer oil glands, meaning it is harder for them to stay moisturized. Keep a hand cream in your purse, and moisturize after you wash your hands.

4. Protect your lips

The cold can burn and chap your lips, so be sure to keep a lip balm handy. You will need something thicker than your normal gloss or balm. Avoid a balm with perfumes that will sting or irritate cracked lips and opt for something organic and protective. The thicker and oilier your balm, the better it will work to prevent wind burn.

5. Avoid the heat

Sticking your feet in front of the heater is a no-no for your skin. We know the temptation to warm yourself by the fire, or jump straight into a hot bath is strong, but exposure to extreme temperatures can be more damaging than beneficial. When in the cold for long periods of time, your body hoards heat around your vital organs, reducing the circulation in the parts of your body that are far from the centre, ie. toes and fingers. This can put you at risk of chilblains – a form of frostbite – in these sensitive areas. Chilblains can be exacerbated by sticking your hands and feet directly in front of the heater when you return home. You want to encourage the natural flow of your circulation to these areas so put on some socks and wriggle those toes!

Organiser and music icon, Bob Geldoff, called upon some of the biggest names in the music industry to lend their expertise to the hit, and help raise awareness and funds for the Ebola crisis, which has claimed at least 5,000 lives since March, mostly in West Africa.

The original version of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ was released 30 years ago as an effort to combat poverty in Ethiopia, and featured musicians like Boy George, Sting and George Michael.

Every girl needs her chance to indulge, right? Unfortunately, most of us don’t want to suffer the expanded waistlines that come as a result of such free-feeding. Cater to your sweet tooth (without the extra calories) with these healthy dessert alternatives.

This panna cotta is based on yogurt (as opposed to cream) and is packed full of delicious berries. Summer berries – such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries – are full of antioxidants and polyphenols, which help fight cancer and heart disease!

Unlike many flour-based cakes, this quinoa cake is low GI – meaning, it releases energy slowly throughout the day, keeping you full for longer. It has all the benefits of quinoa, including high protein and riboflavin, which can help migraine sufferers! This one is also a winner for the gluten intolerant!

Pre-packaged muesli or granola bars from the supermarket are often full of sugar, preservatives and hidden sweeteners and additives that aren’t so great for you or your kids. These homemade oatmeal bars make a great snack and can help you monitor your child’s sugar intake.

Sorbet is a great alternative to ice cream or gelato, as it is fruit-based and doesn’t include any fatty creams. While there is still quite a bit of sugar, this fruity delight retains some of the goodness of the fresh fruit you put into it.

This snack is full of energy – make it a great afternoon snack to get you through the work day – without any added sugar! They are made from cocoa which is better than artificial chocolates and is a healthy antioxidant. Despite the lack of sugar, these raw chocolate balls will still appease your sweet cravings with yummy dates and honey.

Did your parents ever tell you to eat your carrots because they will improve your eyesight? This happens to be true! Just one carrot has nearly double the required daily intake of Vitamin A, which is highly beneficial for your eyesight and immune system. Beta-Carotene, a type of Vitamin A found in carrots, is also high in antioxidants and is good for your heart. This carrot and coriander soup is a great way enjoy these amazing nutrients and delicious flavor of these veggies.

Melt butter in large saucepan over a low heat, then fry the onion until softened. Add the ground coriander and cook for one minute, and then add the chopped celery and carrot. Continue to cook, covered, over a gentle heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour the stock into the pan and bring to the boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender.

Set soup aside and allow to cool. Then pour it into a blender and add coriander leaves and honey. Blend until smooth.

Return to soup to the saucepan to reheat. Season to taste and serve in bowls garnished with a swirl of sour cream and a some coriander leaves.

Feel like you need to check your attitude? Perhaps you have a longing to give back to those in need. On November 13, take part in World Kindness Day by trying these simple gestures to make the world a little better.

Ever noticed how depressed people look on the morning commute to work? We try to avoid our fellow passengers like they’re carrying a deadly virus instead of embracing that you’re all doing the same thing, you’re all trying to get by. Next time somebody boards your train and is looking for a place to sit, move your handbag and smile – you never know whose day you will improve.

Give somebody a compliment

Too often we think nice things about our friends, family, co-workers, even strangers and we never tell them. Why? Tell the people you love that you love them, the people you respect, that you respect them, and that the girl or guy you pass on the way into the office looks nice today.

Go out of your way to help

If you see somebody looking lost on the street, ask if they need directions. Clean the house for your house mates. If you’re making coffee at work, offer your co-workers. If someone you know is down, give them a call and listen to what they have to say.

Donate blood

Don’t have the money, but have your health? Head to the hospital or your local blood drive and make a donation. A blood donation could be worth more to someone than money. Although, if you do have a few spare dollars, giving them to a worthy organisation will always help.

Clean our your closet

We all have clothes in our closet that we never wear, no matter how many times we say we will. On World Kindness Day, give your excess belongings to charity or offer them to a friend. Be realistic about what you want and need – and let go of the things you don’t.

Care for the environment

Being kind to the environment is like spreading kindness to future generations. If you see some person’s empty coffee cup on the bus, pick it up and put it in the bin. You could also plant a tree, have a meat-free day, or sort through your recycling.

Be Kind to yourself

While most of us don’t find it difficult being kind to others, we struggle finding the right words to say to ourselves. Forgive your mistakes, trust yourself to make good decisions, and remind yourself that you are just fine and fabulous the way you are.

World Kindness Day is part of an international movement promoting kindness and goodwill. To find out more about the event and what you can do, visit The World Kindness Movement website.

Remember that scene in Bridesmaids where they all get food poisoning in the bridal boutique? Prior to the horror that eventuated, there was a squabble close to the hearts of bridesmaids everywhere – the price of the dress.

It is custom for the bridesmaids to purchase their own dresses. Unfortunately, deciding on a dress can be problematic. It is rare that all your bridesmaids will have the same body shape, but more importantly, it isn’t really fair to ask others to pay for a dress they don’t want and will probably never wear again, especially if it is out of their budget.

For a bridesmaid, the dress is only the start! We also have the bachelorette party, a wedding present and an engagement present, accessories and any other wedding events we are expected to attend. Fortunately, SHESAID has a few tips to save you and your bridesmaids a few extra dollars.

1. The dress

The bottom line is that a bridesmaid shouldn’t be forced to pay for a dress she can’t afford. However, to avoid tension in this area, the bride should select a color and/or material, and have the bridesmaids style or select their own dress to fit the theme. This will allow them to spend as much or little as they like, as well as help them feel comfortable and confident on the day.

2. The bachelorette party

Don’t organise a party in Vegas if nobody can afford it. Sure, people are welcome to stay at home and avoid the cost, but be prepared to party alone. If you are heading to a bar or club, ask everyone to donate a certain amount of cash to the bar tab ($50-$100 each) and don’t make any outrageous requests on someone else’s pocket. In my opinion, hosting a bridal shower at home is the most fun – and certainly the most financially savvy – way to go. It also allows you to better control the time and theme, save on the booze and cater accordingly.

3. The makeup, hair and accessories

It is generally assumed that the bride will pay for hair and makeup if she wants her bridesmaids to look a certain way. However, if you aren’t a fussy bride, have the bridesmaids do their own makeup or enlist the assistance of a friend. Ditto with the hair. There are so many easy hairstyles to try at home. It might even be fun to have a trial day with you and your closest gal pals. Fortunately, we can now buy accessories from online boutiques or e-tailers like Etsy or Ebay.

Goat cheese, or chèvre, is high in flavor and low in fat. It is higher in calcium and protein than its brothers made from cows milk. This goat cheese salad is great to accompany a large meal for the family, or to enjoy on your lunch break.

Using your hands, mould the goats cheese into tiny balls (no larger than half an inch in diameter). Put your flour in a small bowl, or on a plate, and roll the goats cheese balls, coating them evenly in the flour.

Transfer your goats cheese balls to the lightly beaten eggs, coating them in the mixture.

Next, pour your bread crumbs onto a plate or into a bowl, then cover your goats cheese balls in the crumbs.

Heat oil in a small skillet on medium-high heat (you should only need to use around a 1/4 cup – you don’t want to deep fry the goats cheese, just crisp the bread crumbs on the outside.) Put the crumbed goats cheese balls in the frying pan and cook on all sides, rotating as required to cook evenly. You don’t want to deep fry the goats cheese, just crisp the bread crumbs on the outside. You can cook several balls at a time if you have the room, just make sure you always test one first. Once fried, transfer to paper towel on a plate and set aside.

Put leafy greens and figs in a bowl. Add goats cheese balls and serve. Season with salt and pepper, if required.

Lonely Planet recently named Singapore its top country to visit in 2015. The nation, which gained its independence from Britain in 1965, will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee, making it the perfect time to get that bit extra out of your travel experience. The city will be full of celebrations and specials marking this important anniversary, but in case you’re not convinced, here are five reasons you should visit this burgeoning urban paradise.

Singapore is known for its multiculturalism. Its population hails from Malaysia, India and China and one of the largest expat communities in the world. This mix of cultures results in an delicious range of eateries, from market-style street food, to cosmopolitan brunches in hip cafes. You must try laksa in Katong or the Tian Tian Hainanese chicken and rice in the Maxwell Road Hawker Centre.

Hip and trendy

This young city is at the forefront of trendy bar and nightlife experiences, with a number of alternative neighbourhoods to explore. Plan a day as a local hipster with brunch and boutique shopping in trendy Tiong Bahru, then make your way to Katong for a night out. There are also plenty of arty spaces in Singapore but a brand new National Gallery will open in 2015, set to house unique and historic art works from across the continent.

Family fun

Singapore has a breadth of tourist attractions to please the whole family. If you’re travelling with kids – or even if you’re not – there are plenty of fun tourist sites to keep you occupied. Take a trip to Sentosa Island and Universal Studios, wander around Merlion Park, visit the world-famous Singapore Zoo, or spend the day at Marina Bay. If you’re into sports, Singapore is one of the oldests hosts of Formula 1 Grand Prix events and, in 2015, will also host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Games.

Green city

Singapore is the cleanest city in the world. It is notorious for its strict laws on pollution, like being in possession of chewing gum (illegal) and the abundance of public, open-air no smoking zones. However, this small sacrifice means the rest of us can enjoy an eco-friendly experience of Singapore and take in its pristine green spaces and gardens.

The high life

Be forewarned that Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, the price tag comes with the lifestyle. There are great luxury hotels and resorts, as well as shopping and dining opportunities. Stay in style at the ship-shaped Marina Bay Sands or historic Raffles Hotel, or try one of the many hot new editions, including the Sofitel So Singapore or the Patina Capitol Singapore, set to open mid-2015.

The best thing about websites like Airbnb is that they allow you to find unique accommodation all over the world. People offer travellers their homes, yurts and windmills to stay in, giving the adventurous souls an alternative experience of untouched locations. If you’re lucky, you might even find an entire island to call home (for a few nights at least).

Uschi, the restored vintage bus, is located on the secluded Cala Comte beach on Ibiza. Enjoy a beautiful sunset with your significant other, dine at the nearby beachfront restaurants, then retire for a secluded night under the stars. A stay here will definitely make a holiday to remember.

Taking “lake house” to a new level, this cabin has its own island for you to explore. Take a group of friends this Halloween weekend and have the getaway of your life. What happens on the island, stays on the island, right?

This dome is on a 12-acre property in Woodridge, New York – far beyond the reach of civilization. Having said that, you’ll still get free high speed wifi! You’re welcome to bring a large group and crash all over the large floor (if you provide the mattresses). You can also buy eggs and veggies grown on the site!

‘Tis the season to eat pumpkin! This fall favorite has a place in every meal, am I right? The healthy pumpkin dip is both great as an afternoon snack for you and your kids, or with nibbles at your Halloween party. The best part? It is so easy to make! All you need are a few ingredients, ten minutes and a blender!

1 small fresh pumpkin, peeled, seeded and cut into cubes (you will need just over half a pound)

1 tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp dried chilli flakes

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Place the pumpkin in a pot and cover with cold water. Place on stove on high heat until the water boils, then lower the heat to simmer. Cook the pumpkin for approx. 10 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Add a tablespoon of oil and the cumin seeds to a small frypan and cook on low heat. Once the cumin seeds start to sizzle, take off heat and add chilli flakes. This allows both the flavours of the cumin and the chilli to infuse into the oil.

Put the cooked pumpkin and half of the cumin and chilli mixture into a food processor (or bowl, if you have a stick mixer). Blend till smooth. You can add the olive oil, 1 spoon at a time, as necessary to help blend. The mixture shouldn’t be too runny, but smooth and dense.

Finally, add salt and pepper to taste. Serve in a small bowl or dish, garnished with the remainder of the cumin and chilli mixture.

Trick-or-treat etiquette is rarely agreed upon and pushed boundaries can crack even the most harmonious neighborhoods. We are all guilty of forgetting our manners amid the frenzy that surrounds free candy and fun costumes. Be on your best behaviour this Halloween with these trick-or-treat dos and don’ts.

While there’s nothing wrong with throwing a Halloween party for you and your wine-loving friends, bear in mind that you shouldn’t go around asking for candy above the age of 12 unless you’re accompanied by a minor.

DON’T: Harrass your neighbors

If a neighbor hasn’t turned their porch light on, or if you knock on the door and nobody answers, the resident is either not at home, or deliberately avoiding you. Don’t try to shake the candy out of an unwilling participant.

DO: Be prepared

It’s tough having to tell wanting witches and baby vampires that you’re all out of candy. Stock up and pace yourself. If you’re all out of the good stuff, turn your outside lights off or put a sign on your door telling the kiddies to try the next house.

DON’T: Be a grouch

You’re not a bad person for loathing the idea of local cherubs knocking on your door all night. But remember it is only one night of the year, and a festive one at that. Don’t let your sourpuss ruin little Sally’s night.

DO: Supervise

Always remember to accompany your kids or know their whereabouts, and check their loot when they return home to ensure there aren’t any nasty surprises in the haul. It always helps to just go through a few pedestrian safety or stranger danger rules.

DON’T: Ask for seconds

Giving candy to one of the greedy brats from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a sure way to guarantee that neighbour won’t be participating next year. Sharing is caring, there should be plenty to go around.

DO: Be polite

This is the most important rule of Trick-or-Treating. Remind your kids of their manners and that saying “thank you” is non-negotiable in the trick-or-treat contract. If you’re with your kids, throw in a thank you on your behalf to show your appreciation.

These famous women prove that your age and gender doesn’t stop you from achieving success and making an impact. All under the age of 30, our top 5 young female role models have contributed significantly to the arts and culture, politics, and humanitarian movements, and are extremely worthy of our attention, respect and admiration. These are the kind of women we love to see in the limelight, setting a great example for this generation.

In the past few years alone, Lena has accomplished writing a critically acclaimed autobiography, a TV show (which she writes, produces, directs and stars in), a film, two Golden Globe Awards, and was the first woman to win a Director’s Guild Award for Best Director in a Comedy Series. She actively supports pro-choice, feminist and gay rights campaigns, and also has a Q&A YouTube series. If you have read her book, you will also know that Lena has achieved all this while battling crippling anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder. Oh, and she’s 28 years old.

Malala Yousafzai

This 17 year-old recently became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. She has been advocating education for girls in her home country of Pakistan since the age of 11, but rose to international notoriety when Taliban members shot her on a school bus in 2012. She survived the shooting and continues to speak out against Taliban oppression in her hometown, despite an ongoing warrant for her assassination. Brave, intelligent, kind: Malala is exactly the kind of young woman you want your children to know about.

Emma Watson

Emma has been in the limelight since the age of nine, after gaining a lead role in the Harry Potter film series. This year she was appointed a United Nations Women Goodwill Ambassador and advocates gender equality all over the world, most recently launching the UN HeForShe Campaign. In between filming one of the most popular film franchises in history, and being an accomplished humanitarian, Watson also graduated from Brown University with a degree in English Literature, and became a certified yoga instructor.

Keke Palmer

Since the age of nine, Palmer has been either on the stage, in front of the camera, or behind the mic. Once, one of the highest paid child actors on TV (as the lead in Nickelodeon‘s True Jackson, VP), Keke continues to conquer as the host of her own talk show, Just Keke, an album set for release, an ambassador for several charities, and an upcoming role on the tv show, Masters of Sex. Most notably, the 21 year-old recently became the first African-American woman to portray Cinderella in the Broadway musical.

Lorde

The world is an oyster for this small town teenager… and we mean small town – her hometown in New Zealand has a population of just over 5,000. Lorde took home two Grammy’s earlier this year for her number one single Royals, including song of the year. She is a woman of the people, acclaimed for her lyrical critique of wealth, excess and celebrity. She featured in Forbes 30 under 30 list, as well as Time’s Most Influential Teenagers. This year, she was also appointed to oversee the Hunger Games Mockingjay soundtrack, and has another solo album in the works. She is a self-identified feminist, and advocates for people to enrol to vote in her home country. She is turning 18 in November.

Nearly 800 Australian women under the age of 40 will be diagnosed with cancer every year. While young women aren’t the most vulnerable demographic, this means symptoms can often be go undetected. It is important to remember that breast cancer can happen to anybody, and breast awareness is the best way to monitor your health and reduce the risk of breast cancer.

In order to detect any changes in your breasts, you must know how they look and feel regularly.

While changes to your breasts don’t usually mean cancer, you should know what kind of changes too look for:

a new lump or lumpiness

a change in the size or shape of your breast or nipple

changes to the skin around the breast or nipple

dimpling of the skin or nipple

discharge or blood from the nipple

an unusual pain that doesn’t go away.

You should regularly feel and examine your breasts in the shower or when dressing.

According to Worldwide Breast Cancer, a lump can feel like a lemon seed – hard and immovable.

If you notice and change or are concerned about your breasts, visit the doctor as soon as you can.

October 27 is Pink Ribbon Day. To support breast cancer research you can donate by purchasing a Pink Ribbon (available at David Jones, Big W and selected stalls), or sign up to Register4 – Australia’s first national online research register – to participate in cancer research.

There are so many types of bras on the market. You need the basic styles that will support you through every occasion. Going on a hot date? Perhaps you’ll want to bust out the black lace. Going for a run? Sports bra – all the way! Sweetheart neckline? Strapless! Follow this list to ensure you have a bra for every occasion.

Your breasts can bounce up to an inch and a half when you run! Therefore, it is vital to have a good quality sports bra to preserve your breast tissue and keep the ladies in tact. Have a look at our guide for finding the best sports bra.

Sexy

Putting on some sexy lingerie that you love is a sure way to get you in the mood. Some powerhouse lingerie can empower you in the day-to-day as well as in the bedroom. So head to Agent Provocateur and bag yourself some goodies.

T-shirt

Now at the opposite end of the spectrum – it may not be the sexiest bra, but just like seamless underwear, it is sometimes necessary. A tshirt bra should keep you discreetly covered and supported under form-fitting clothing. Try this Victoria’s Secret bra.

Strapless

For those singlets and bandeaus that just can’t deal with visible straps. Getting the right fit is key to a strapless bra. Too tight means bulges, too loose means, well… you’ll be pulling it up all night. Try this Calvin Klein Tailored Strapless Push-Up Bra.